| Rakta
Mokshan or artificial bloodletting was included in the Panchakarma
therapy by Aacharya Sushrut. Rakta Mokshan is essentially
extracting blood from specific blood vessels (veins), mentioned
for specific chronic diseases. In past, it was done by using
purified and sterilized horns of animals, gourd, by applying
leeches or by puncturing veins (Phlebotomy). At present only
latter two methods are followed. However, since it is an invasive
procedure, it should be administered by a licensed physician
only. Before beginning with the bloodletting therapy, the
preparatory procedures such as Abhyanga (external oleation
therapy) and Swedan (local fomentation) are usually carried
out on the affected area.
Indications
Patients suffering from chronic edema and inflammations,
skin disorders, gout, tumors, boils, abscesses, disorders
of liver and spleen, etc. are advised to undergo the bloodletting
therapy. All the diseases caused by vitiated Pitta Dosha or
impurities of blood are advised treatment of bloodletting.
Contra-indications
It should not be carried out in the patients suffering from
anaemia, malnourishment, ascites, piles, tuberculosis, and
during pregnancy.
Procedure
Before starting Raktamokshan, local fomentation is given.
After that, leeches are applied at the desired site of blood
letting. (Some times, it is simply extracted out through syringe
and needle.) When the procedure is carried out properly, the
leeches leave the site naturally after sucking out all the
impure blood, and bleeding ceases spontaneously. There is
significant decrease in the symptoms of pain, and inflammation,
the severity of the disease is minimized.
Complication of improper blood letting
Signs of incomplete bloodletting are, itching, inflammation,
cellulitis and pain at the site of blood letting. When done
in excess, one could be subjected to weakness, headache, and
weakness. To stop excessive bleeding in such cases, ice or
astringent medicines should be applied on the area of bleeding.
Post Raktamokshan Process
After completion of the process of Raktamokshan, turmeric
powder is applied on the site of bloodletting. This acts as
hemostyptic, antiseptic and blood purifier.
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